For most hot hatch enthusiasts, the VW Golf GTI TCR is the Mk7 Golf to have – at least until the new-generation model arrives.

Sure, the Golf R may accelerate more quickly and offer more grip, but the TCR is lighter, nimbler and ultimately, more fun to drive, especially on a track. All things considered, some customers want more of their GTI TCRs and tuning companies are there to indulge them.

Germany-based Maxi-Tuner and Dronia Sportwagen have teamed up on a project to squeeze more performance and style from the Golf GTI TCR. In stock configuration, the 2.0-liter TSI turbo-four makes 290 PS (286 HP) at 5,400 – 6,400 rpm and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 1,950 and 5,300 rpm.

See Also: 286HP VW Golf GTI TCR Introduces Itself In Huge Photo Gallery

Mated to a standard seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic connected to the front axle, the engine enables the Golf TCR to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds.

By implementing a software optimization, Maxi-Tuner takes the TSI engine to 335 PS (330 HP) and 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque – more than what you get from a stock VW Golf R or Audi S3. As a result, the modified Golf GTI TCR is able to do 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds and complete an intermediate sprint from 70 to 130 km/h (43-81 mph) in just 4.0 seconds.

In addition to the performance boost, Maxi-Tuner fitted the GTI TCR with a set of MaxSpeed light alloy wheels featuring a high-gloss black version on the left side and mouse gray on the right. Measuring in at 8.5 x 19-inch ET45, the rims are shod with 235/35 R19 Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 tires. Rounding out the package are an Eibach coil-over suspension and fine-tuning of the dampers’ compression and rebound stage settings.

Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?
Mk7 VW Golf GTI TCR Tuned To 330 HP, But What About Those Wheels?